Page 125 of My Sweetest Temptation

We took our places at the dining room table, with me next to Enzo, Tabi and Tristan sitting opposite me, and Liam and his father at the ends of the table.

“Mr. Liam’s dad, would you like some help?” Tabi offered.

“Dan,” he replied warmly. “Please, call me Dan. And no, I’ve got it. You’re our guests.”

Dan and Liam began setting out the main course and drinks.

“What do you think of this?” Liam asked, grinning as he gestured toward the spread. “We’re going to have leftovers for weeks.”

Dan chuckled as he carved the golden-brown turkey.

The table was overflowing with the usual Thanksgiving favorites—mashed potatoes, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and cranberry sauce. But there was also soup, fresh green salad, and limoncello tiramisu.

Once Dan had finished carving the turkey, he set the knife down and looked around the table. “Alright, everyone. Don’t be shy. Dig in,” he said.

“Everything looks amazing, Dan,” I said, picking up my fork and preparing to fix my plate.

“Yeah, I second that,” Tabi added, her mouth already full of mashed potatoes.

“Thank you,” Dan replied. “I’m glad you’re enjoying it.”

While we were eating, Dan engaged us in conversation.

“So, Winter, Liam tells me you play the violin.”

I finished chewing my bite of turkey and responded. “Yes, I’ve been playing since I was a little girl.”

“That’s amazing.”

I smiled at his proud expression.

“I knew someone who played the violin, and she was magnificent.” His voice drifted into a melancholic whisper.

He didn’t elaborate further, and I felt tempted to ask about the woman who had captivated his heart so deeply. But the sorrowful look on his face held me back.

“And Tabi, what is that you do?” Dan asked her.

Tabi coughed and Tristan patted her back. She quickly took a drink of water and cleared her throat. “I, um, I’m a dancer.”

Dan’s eyes widened as if he was impressed. “Wow. What kind of dance? Contemporary? Ballet?”

“Ah, no sir. I’m an exotic dancer.”

A heavy silence enveloped the table, thick with unspoken thoughts hanging in the air. I held my breath, unsure of how Dan would respond. But his response took me by surprise.

He leaned in slightly, his voice gentle and sincere. “You have to do what you need to do to take care of your family. No judgment here, sweetheart. Just promise me you’ll keep yourself safe.”

His words melted away the tension in her shoulders, and with a slight, grateful nod, she responded, “I will, thank you.”

The rest of the dinner went well, and we all enjoyed each other’s company. I helped clear the table, once everything was put away, Enzo waited for me at the door with our coats in hand. Liam gave us each a hug as we prepared to head out. “I’m glad you guys could come.”

I smiled at him. “Me too.” I turned to Dan, who watched me from the archway. “Thank you for inviting us to your home.”

“I was happy to have all of you today. Happy Thanksgiving.” He came around and pulled me into a tight hug.

When I stepped back, I noticed unshed tears in his eyes. “Are you okay? I asked, putting on my coat.

He chuckled softly. “Yes. You just reminded me of someone,” he said.

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